The ”Merchant Builders” of Self-Storage: Benjamin Salzberg + Bill Kanatas

What if your next investment could be in self-storage—not just as a space saver, but as a serious wealth builder?

In this episode of the Property Profits Podcast, host Dave Dubeau dives into the self-storage development world with Benjamin Salzberg and Bill Kanatas, founders of SelfStorageDevelopers.com. These two seasoned pros are not just constructing buildings—they’re designing what they call "wealth vehicles" for their investors.

Ben and Bill break down their merchant build model, why they prefer building from the ground up, and how their projects appeal to REITs and sophisticated investors alike. They explain how self-storage offers flexibility, quicker depreciation, and fewer headaches compared to multifamily housing—and how they vet markets to ensure profitability.

You’ll hear insights about everything from drive-through Class A facilities to the surprising lifestyle trends driving demand for storage. The duo also opens up about the development challenges they face and why clear exit strategies matter in every deal.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

• What “merchant builders” really do in self-storage

• How their development model benefits investors

• The unique perks of investing in self-storage over multifamily

• Why Class A, climate-controlled units are in high demand

• How technology and security are shaping tenant expectations

• The challenges and realities of self-storage development

• What kinds of markets and property specs they look for

 

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